ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A controversial plan to create a downtown Business Improvement District was approved in June and went into effect in July. Now, the city is looking for a service provider to manage the services and operations of the BID.
“This step marks a significant milestone in the implementation of the BID, which will provide supplemental services within the downtown area with a particular focus on enhanced safety and cleanliness,” a news release from the city said.
Business groups advocated for the district, arguing special property taxes within the downtown area could be used for public safety and cleanliness efforts that supplement city services. They said a BID would be a key driver for economic development downtown.
Critics questioned putting taxpayer dollars under the control of an unelected board and raised concerns about the role of downtown “ambassadors” who would interact with the public, including the unhoused population.
A pair of 6-1 votes on the BID and a related resolution ended months of deliberations, which included a marathon public hearing this spring and a sometimes emotional public debate on both sides. Council Member Kim Roney cast the lone dissenting vote.
On Friday, the city announced the release of a Request for Proposal for a service provider to manage the services and operations of the BID. The city is seeking proposals from qualified service providers with experience in managing similar place-based and community-focused programs. The selected provider will be responsible for operationalizing the BID’s services in the following focus areas:
- Safety & Hospitality: Ensuring a welcoming and secure environment for everyone
- Enhanced Cleaning: Keeping our downtown clean and well-maintained
- Special Projects: Undertaking initiatives that enhance the downtown experience
Proposals must be submitted by 5 p.m. Oct. 15, 2024. Details on submission requirements and selection criteria are available in the official RFP document, which can be accessed here.
Community engagement shaped service priorities
During community feedback sessions held in July and August, city staff worked closely with local stakeholders to refine the BID’s service priorities. An engagement summary is available here.
According to the news release, the city is committed to ensuring that the downtown BID reflects and responds to the unique character and needs of the community and that the selected service provider implements the following objectives:
- Be intentional about creating a downtown environment that is welcoming and inclusive to all, with a focus on engaging Asheville businesses, residents, and workers.
- Provide services and management that improve the downtown experience and quality of life such as complimenting public safety, hospitality, enhancing cleanliness, and beautifying public spaces.
- Create a nimble mechanism for championing and sustaining downtown improvement efforts for the long-term.
- Increase business activity and attract new investment, with intention to support small independent businesses.
For additional information about the RFP process or to stay updated on the Downtown BID and implementation of services, click here.
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